The latest animal welfare barometer reveals an overwhelming demand from European citizens for improved EU legislation to genuinely safeguard animals. Over 90% of Europeans express the importance of protecting the welfare of farmed animals, with a majority considering it very important. Additionally, more than eight in ten Europeans believe that farmed animals in their countries should receive better protection than they currently do. These findings emphasize the need for the European Commission to fulfill its commitment to present proposals for revising EU animal welfare legislation, as pledged.
The much-anticipated special Eurobarometer on “Attitudes of Europeans towards Animal Welfare” has been released, polling 26,376 citizens across all member states between March 2 and March 26, 2023. This official tool informs EU institutions when drafting reports and legislations.
Key survey highlights:
- Over 90% of Europeans believe farming and breeding practices should meet basic ethical requirements, with two-thirds desiring more information on farmed animal conditions.
- 57% of respondents advocate for banning fur farms in Europe, aligning with the 1.5 million citizens supporting the successful Fur Free Europe ECI.
- Over 90% of Europeans believe farmed animals should have adequate space and not be kept in individual cages, supporting the call by 1.4 million citizens for a cage ban.
- 88% of Europeans emphasize the importance of improving animal welfare in slaughterhouses.
- 89% of Europeans favor a ban on mutilations, a common practice causing pain in the EU.
- Three-quarters find killing male chicks after birth unacceptable, and 80% stress the importance of skills and training for those handling animals.
- 83% believe the travel time for live animal transport within or from the EU for commercial purposes should be limited.
- 84% of Europeans demand changes in the animal welfare situation for food imports from non-EU countries.
- 60% are willing to pay more for products from animal welfare-friendly farming systems.
- 74% believe the welfare of companion animals should be better protected.
These results coincide with criticism aimed at the European Commission for failing to uphold commitments to revise EU animal welfare legislation. EU citizens’ overwhelming support for enhanced animal welfare highlights the urgent need for the Commission to respond with a firm commitment and timeline for the Kept Animals and Slaughter Regulations.